There were times when intimacy brought little pleasure for Judy. But those thoughts, she kept buried deep. After all, Joseph was the textbook image of a controlling, traditional man. Still, it was surprising how much he seemed to have changed. He even stood up and poured water for both of them. Judy was a little taken aback by the gesture, but she didn’t say much. If he was willing to do these things for her, then she’d accept them without guilt. She could handle it, and if nothing else, she had the guts to face whatever came with it.

Still, Joseph’s change felt strange. Was it really possible he’d changed because of her? She remained skeptical. Joseph gently took her hand and spoke with soft concern. “Judy, have you really been that tired lately? I feel like… we hardly talk anymore.”

Hearing that, Judy felt a flicker of guilt. She hadn’t been busy with work at all these days; she’d been wrapped up in her time with Kenneth. That man, she had to admit, was far more magnetic than Joseph had ever been. And more than that, he knew how to care for someone. Even in bed, he always made sure both sides enjoyed it. So really, there was no comparison between the two. But as for Joseph, Judy still had unfinished business with him. That was why she hadn’t torn things apart just yet.

“I’ve been busy negotiating international partnerships lately,” Judy said in her usual sweet, gentle tone. “You know, this studio of mine is still in its early stages. So, most things still need my hands-on involvement.”

Hearing the same old excuses, Joseph was already starting to feel weary. “I’ve never let you go without money. Why work yourself so hard to earn more?”

Judy replied, a hint of discontent in her voice. “Joseph, of course I know how good you’ve been to me. But you’re part of my future plans. I can’t bear to see you work so hard, so I want to share some of the burden and make things easier for you.”

Even as the words left her mouth, Judy had to fight the urge to roll her eyes. She hadn’t imagined the day would come when she’d have to say something so insincere. Yet here she was, forcing the words out anyway. Sure enough, Joseph’s suspicion seemed to ease.

He held her tighter, arms wrapped more firmly around her. “Judy, I knew you were the best.” His cheek pressed close to hers, their bodies drawn together, breaths mingling in the narrow space between them. Joseph looked serious as he promised, “Judy, don’t worry. I’ll marry you, I swear. I’ll make sure my parents come around. I’ll handle everything and get their approval.”

Judy listened to him in silence, her heart completely unmoved. Where he couldn’t see, the corner of her lips curved into a mocking smile. “I know, Joseph. I believe you.” Though dissatisfied deep down, Judy still wrapped her arms around him. “I care about you too. I didn’t want you to be caught in the middle, so I hoped your parents would accept me sooner. That’s why I started this studio. If I’m a little busy sometimes, I hope you won’t mind too much.”